The foundation colony is the source population that ensures the long-term genetic stability and healthy reproduction of mouse strains. Its establishment and maintenance follow a scientifically rigorous process:
1.From the rederived/resuscitated base population, individuals with correct genetic background, strong reproductive performance, and no potential health issues are screened and selected as initial breeders based on genotyping (PCR, sequencing), reproductive performance records, and comprehensive health monitoring reports.
2.A complete digital pedigree archive and genetic management database are established for the foundation colony. A rotational mating system (scheduled rotation breeding system) based on optimal genetic contribution is adopted to replace random mating, maximize the retention of effective genetic diversity within the population, precisely control the slow increase of the inbreeding coefficient, and avoid fertility decline and genetic drift caused by inbreeding.
3.The foundation colony is housed in an independent SPF-grade barrier environment and subjected to high-frequency health monitoring and regular genetic monitoring to ensure genotype purity. The foundation colony is not used directly for experiments. Its core mission is to continuously breed healthy, genetically stable offspring, providing high-quality seed stock for the expansion colony and production colony, thereby ensuring long-term consistency in the genetic and microbiological background of mice used for experiments.